MANCHESTER UNITED could still save what has been a disastrous season.
But their mettle will be tested in the semi final, with the first leg against Athletic Bilbao in Spain on Thursday.
Athletic Bilbao vs Manchester United preview
Four remain in the Europa League and this looks a close tie between Bilbao and United.
It might sound a little strange to say, with Bilbao flying high in fourth in La Liga and United three points clear of 17th in the Premier League.
But for a long period now, this competition has been the number one priority for Ruben Amorim and his players.
It very nearly ended in catastrophe in the last round when trailing 4-2 to 10-man Lyon at Old Trafford, before that stirring comeback that saw them score in minutes 120 and 121 to complete a remarkable turnaround to win 5-4.
Sunday’s 1-1 draw at Bournemouth â again a side who finished with 10 men â was a decent result and they’d have taken before the game but there was just a real lack of final third quality.
If Bruno Fernandes doesn’t create anything, United don’t create anything.
That Lyon victory came after the sides drew 2-2 in normal time, meaning United haven’t won any of their last seven games in 90 minutes in all competitions. A worrying stat.
But they might well take heart in the knowledge Bilbao toiled against Rangers over two legs in the previous round and really didn’t look particularly special in either leg when winning 2-0 on aggregate.
There’s immense pressure on Bilbao to make it through too, with the final being held at their stadium â where admittedly they do have a great unbeaten record of nine games currently.
United would likely snap your hand off for a draw to bring back.
Athletic Bilbao vs Man Utd latest odds
- Athletic Bilbao at Evens with William Hill â CLAIM HERE
- Draw at 12/5 with Betfred â CLAIM HERE
- Man Utd at 14/5 with BetMGM â CLAIM HERE
Odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
Athletic Bilbao vs Man Utd predictions
Leader
As mentioned, Bruno Fernandes is by far and away United’s best player and their progression in the tie likely rests on his shoulders.
Has very rarely let them down when needed most, it’s just a pity about some around him.
Set piece taker and picks up great spots on the pitch. Have to book at the odds.
- Bruno Fernandes to score anytime at 16/5 with William Hill â CLAIM HERE
Stay in the tie
United would bite your hand off to bring home any sort of result here.
Europe seems to have brought the best out of them too and that Bilbao display against Rangers in the round before shows they’re maybe not what they’re cracked up to be.
Having said that, it would be silly to assume United will suddenly turn up and put in a top away display but they can certainly avoid defeat.
- Draw and BTTS at 15/4 with William Hill â CLAIM HERE
